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Traditional hedgerow elderflower cordial

I've tried a couple of different recipes for elderflower cordial, and I've used this recipe a couple of times now and it produces an excellent result. The light flowery taste of elderflower cordial is one of the most refreshing and individual flavours, which transports you to the long days of early summer.

First find your hedgerow! Elderflowers are not available in the shops. Pick 20 good sized heads with the flowers fully open.

Rinse elderflowers briefly underwater, shake off excess water.

Boil 1.5L (2 3/4 pints) water in a large pan then remove from heat and add the sugar, citric acid and elderflowers. Stir to dissolve the sugar then cover the pan with a lid and leave to stand in a cool place for five days, stiring twice daily.

Strain the liquid through muslin into a large bowl, crush half a Campden tablet with the back of a spoon, and stir into the cordial (the Campden tablet helps the cordial to last well).

Pour the cordial into four 1 1/4 pint clean, sterilized bottles, seal them with a tight-fitting cap then label. The cordial is ready to use straight away - just dilute to taste with water. (Carbonated makes a refreshing drink) add a slice of lemon or lime. Bottles will store for up to 1 year in a cool, dark place.